# Optimal Specimens and Lesions for Mpox Diagnosis Using Real-Time PCR, South Korea

## TL;DR

This study identifies the best samples for diagnosing mpox using PCR in South Korea, focusing on lesion types and body sites.

## Contribution

The study provides evidence-based guidance on optimal specimen types for detecting mpox clade IIb.

## Key findings

- Crusted and anogenital skin lesions showed the highest positivity rates for mpox detection.
- Rectal swab specimens also demonstrated high positivity rates for the virus.
- Viral loads varied depending on lesion type, location, and time since symptom onset.

## Abstract

We analyzed 612 specimens from 135 patients with monkeypox virus clade IIb in South Korea by using real-time PCR. Crusted and anogenital skin lesions and rectal swab specimens demonstrated the highest positivity rates. Viral loads varied by lesion type, anatomic site, and time since symptom onset, supporting our specimen selection for clade IIb detection.